Photo credit: Will Von Bolton

It’s a great time of year to think about making a trip down to Austin.

And, if you’re Jason Boland, anytime is a great time to think about taking the trip.

“Take Me Back to Austin” — the final single from Jason Boland & The Stragglers’ forthcoming album, The Last Kings of Babylon — celebrates Boland’s adopted home of Austin, TX, where he met his wife and loves to return after time spent on the road.

“My wife and I lived in Austin when we first got together, and then we moved out into the country in Texas, where it can be pretty boring,” Boland explains. “People expect with how much time I spend on the road that I’d want to come home and kick my shoes off when I finally get a break, but all we ever want to do is head right back into Austin and catch a band.”

The down-home traditional country tune is carefree in its essence. Boland’s gentle, yet robust baritone illustrates a homecoming that feels like home, every time. Beautifully woven steel guitar and fiddle parts add depth to the sonic palette, trading lead duties during a riveting solo just before the bridge.

Alongside the rest of the new album, “Take Me Back to Austin” was produced by the legendary Lloyd Maines, who also produced the band’s debut album, Pearl Snaps. You’ll have a chance to hear it live at select dates throughout the southwest and midwest this spring. Before you do, enjoy it in the here and now!